Antonio Manganaro – 1943 ex Antonio Ochoa

Description

Antonio Manganaro is a fascinating figure in South American stringed instrument making. This gifted luthier has left few traces of his outstanding production, which ranges from the classical guitar to string quartet instruments with a remarkable level of excellence. He left Italy to settle in Argentina in the 1920s in La Plata, near Buenos Aires. It is probably in this city that he came across some of Francisco Simplicio’s freshly imported instruments. These have profoundly inspired his aesthetics and this work of art highlights this strong influence from Barcelona.

This guitar built in 1943 and bearing the number 53 is exceptional in all respects. Its condition is simply remarkable, just as on the day it left the workshop, and still protected by its original luxury case. Such a state of preservation is even more impressive since this guitar has been played extensively. In fact, it was built for the internationally renowned guitarist Antonio Ochoa. The latter, Antonio Lauro’s trio partner in the „Raúl Borges guitar trio“, hand-signed the label before the instrument was closed and his signature is still visible on the left side of the label.

What charm and elegance in the timbre of this guitar. It has all the sweetness of Barcelona guitars, with an exquisite warmth characteristic of South American instruments. The playability is perfect, reflecting its general condition as well as the attention paid to construction details. From the sculpted head to the unique rosette and the choice of an exceptional Amazonian rosewood timber, everything about this guitar shows a refined taste and a unique talent for the time. In short, this guitar is a unique instrument of absolute rarity with a first-class pedigree that will enrich any collection or demanding guitarist.